Arizona Coyotes Owner Alex Meruelo Steps Down and Sells Team to Utah Jazz Owners

Arizona Coyotes owner Alex Meruelo is stepping down and abandoning his plans to build a new arena, casting doubt on the future of NHL hockey in the region. This decision follows the cancellation of a land auction in Phoenix, where Meruelo intended to construct an arena and entertainment district. The Coyotes were sold to the owners of the Utah Jazz, who have moved the team to Salt Lake City, renaming it the Utah Hockey Club. Meruelo retains the rights to the Coyotes' name and trademarks, with an option to reactivate the franchise if a new arena is built within five years. The NHL is likely to wait before considering any expansion back into Arizona. Fans and local figures hope for committed new ownership to eventually bring hockey back to the desert.